Steak-Out getting 'bigger, better' Athens facility

After spending 25 years in a building that was steadily becoming too small, Steak-Out in Athens is moving.

Though several locations were considered, franchise owner Robert Matthews said it ultimately wasn't the location that needed to change.

"I just thought, 'We're already here. Why move?'" he said. "There's something to be said for staying where you are for 25 years."

Since he already owned the property, Matthews decided to build a new facility on the same lot. At 1,940 square feet, it will be more than 1.5 times the size of the current facility, with a larger lobby and the first Steak-Out dining area in Athens.

Matthews said it took a few months to get going, but construction is "doing pretty well considering the short days, cold weather, rain and all that."

He said the company is aiming to open in the next two or three months, though he isn't able to give an exact date yet.

"With the weather being like it is, it's hard to predict the opening day," Matthews said.

He said the current building wasn't designed to be used forever. When the store gets busy, "it's like bumper cars" for those behind the counter.

Not that it has stopped them. Even with construction next door, Steak-Out is continuing operations as normal. Orders can be made online (https://athens.wedeliversteaks.com), by phone (256-233-2299) or in person (1106 S. Jefferson St.).

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